Perfect for film, TV, radio & photography

Are you looking for a location to shoot for a film or television production, or for still or video photography? One that is distinctive and atmospheric, without being a million miles away – or feeling like it?

Then talk to us about using the Leighton Buzzard Railway for your next project.

We are within easy reach of London, with the M1 a short distance away, and the main line from Euston passing through the town.

Work can take place on public operating days, or at times when we are closed to the public, for greater operational freedom. Dedicated trains can be chartered by the hour or the day, if required, and one of our members will be on hand to offer expert knowledge of the railway and its surroundings, as well as ensuring safe operation.

Over the past few years, we have provided facilities for a wide variety of media events. These include the BBC's Bang Goes The Theory series, where we helped presenter Liz Bonnin run a scientific experiment!

Some other examples of our media work

The Man Who Brought the Blues to Britain (BBC Four)

A documentary on blues musician "Big Bill" Broonzy, who had a profound influence on British bands of the 1960s. No trains, but a stretch of track in our "country" section, standing in for the US Deep South at the end of the First World War.

Cowboy Trap (BBC One)

A short introductory item to a consumer programme about some local shoddy builders.

Saturday Live (BBC Radio 4)

Authentic steam railway setting for a John McCarthy interview with Monisha Rajesh, the London-based author of Around India In 80 Trains.

The Golden Years of Steam Railways (BBC Four)

Featured in a 2-part series on the pioneers of railway preservation in Britain, repeated several times already. Look out for the archive footage of the railway in its sand-quarry days, as well as more recent views.

John Sergeant on the Tourist Trail (ITV)

Full day's shooting at a Bank Holiday gala event, resulting in a 5-minute segment in this twice-repeated series.

The ONE Show (BBC One)

Special museum sand train laid on for a feature on the local quarrying industry, presented by Angelica Bell.

Dispatches (Channel 4)

Secluded location for a secret interview with a dissident trade-union official, by presenter Deborah Davies.

Escape to the Country (BBC One & Two)

Featured as one of the local attractions for a couple wishing to settle in south Bedfordshire, and repeated several times. Special steam train operated.

Local News TV

Bedfordshire's own internet news station has visited several times to do topical features on the railway.

Treasure Quest (BBC Three Counties Radio)

On several occasions, our line has taken part in this popular clue-solving show.

Our line has also been used as a location for a Japanese TV company, for a railway-themed drama set in England, for fashion shoots, and even publicity shots for mobility scooters!

More information

We are happy to provide photography and video recording facilities for school, college or university students, and for amateur photography and theatre groups, who want an authentic railway setting for their work.